VPL workers say strike action possible without new collective agreement

Unionized workers at Vancouver Public Libraries (VPL) say strike action is on the table if they can’t work out a new collective agreement.

According CUPE 391, the VPL wants to make what it is calling “significant and unfair” changes to its contract that could put workers at risk of losing their jobs.

Members of the union say their employer wants to roll back scheduling protections for full-time workers, calling this a significant change that does not provide workers with any meaningful protections. They also say VPL wants to increase the number of hours auxiliary workers will need to work to keep their jobs, without a guarantee of more hours for those workers.

“If workers were to accept these concessions it would be a huge step backwards,” the union said in a statement.

The union is also calling for VPL workers to get the same wage increase as other city workers and some basic improvements to working conditions and benefits.

“Strike action is always a last resort,” CUPE 391 said.

“However, by continuing to insist on concessions, VPL is putting the services library users rely on at risk.”

In a statement to CityNews, VPL said, “Vancouver Public Library remains committed to serving the Vancouver community and everyone who relies on library services. In the past few weeks, the parties have begun to work with a mediator. We have faith in the collective bargaining process and believe that the parties can come to an agreement with the assistance of mediation.”

With files from Cole Schisler.